Viscosupplementation
Introduction Living with osteoarthritis can be challenging, as it often brings discomfort and limits mobility. However, viscosupplementation has been shown to achieve incredible strides in increasing mobility, flexibility, and durability. In this article, we’ll explore how viscosupplementation can enhance your ability to perform everyday activities with ease, including walking, bending, stretching, exercising, and doing chores. 1. Walking with Ease For individuals with osteoarthritis, simple tasks like walking can become painful experiences. Viscosupplementation involves injecting a lubricating fluid into the affected joint, which helps reduce friction and cushion the joint, providing enhanced mobility. As a result, you can enjoy walking without the fear of discomfort or stiffness, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle. At the Joint Relief Institute, we often see patients walking right out of the office after their injection is complete! 2. Bending without Discomfort Bending down to tie your shoelaces or pick up something from the floor might seem like a daunting task when you’re dealing with osteoarthritis pain. Viscosupplementation aids in replenishing the natural synovial fluid in the joint, promoting smoother movement and improved flexibility. This means you can bend and move more comfortably, regaining control over your daily activities. 3. Stretching for Flexibility Maintaining joint flexibility is crucial for managing osteoarthritis. With viscosupplementation, the added lubrication in the joint allows for better range of motion. This makes stretching exercises more effective and less uncomfortable. Regular stretching can help improve joint health over time, reducing stiffness and promoting joint longevity. 4. Exercising with Reduced Pain Staying active is essential for overall health, but osteoarthritis can make exercising painful. Viscosupplementation can make a significant difference here. By providing a cushioning effect within the joint, it minimizes impact during physical activities. This means you can engage in low-impact exercises, like swimming or cycling, with reduced pain, allowing you to maintain a healthy lifestyle. 5. Tackling Chores with Confidence Daily chores can become a chore in themselves when you’re dealing with joint pain. Viscosupplementation empowers you to take charge of household tasks again. Whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or gardening, the improved joint lubrication facilitates smoother movements, enabling you to tackle chores with confidence and without excessive strain. Conclusion Osteoarthritis doesn’t have to limit your ability to enjoy life and perform essential tasks. Viscosupplementation is a promising solution that can enhance joint relief and improve mobility. From walking and bending to stretching, exercising, and doing chores, this treatment opens doors to a more active and pain-free lifestyle. If you’re seeking effective ways to manage osteoarthritis and regain control of your daily activities, call the Joint Relief Institute today to schedule an in-person consultation. Embrace the possibilities of improved joint health and enhanced quality of life.
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Understanding Viscosupplementation Viscosupplementation, often referred to as gel injections, is a non-surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis. It involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee joint to lubricate and cushion the joint. This reduces pain and improves mobility for a large majority of patients. Note: Your body naturally produces hydraulic acid making it safe to continue injections as needed. How Long do Gel Injections in the Knee Last? The duration of relief from viscosupplementation can vary from person to person, but typically, patients experience benefits for several months, often up to a year. Joint Relief Institute patients have reported several years of joint pain relief after injections. Factors influencing the duration of knee pain relief include: Severity of Osteoarthritis: Patients with less severe osteoarthritis may experience longer-lasting relief. Number of Injections: A course of multiple injections may provide more sustained relief. Individual Response: Each person’s body responds differently to treatment. Many patients notice immediate relief following a viscosupplementation injection. The added lubrication reduces friction, alleviating pain and improving joint function. Factors Affecting Duration of Viscosupplementation Lifestyle Factors: Engaging in low-impact exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive stress on the joint can help prolong the benefits of viscosupplementation. Follow-up Treatments: Some patients may require additional injections to maintain relief. Consulting with a Healthcare Professional If you’re considering Viscosupplementation, consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s the right treatment for you. They can assess your specific condition and recommend a treatment plan that may include Viscosupplementation. Contact Us Today To learn more about knee gel injections, their costs, and insurance coverage, please contact us: Chicago Office: (708) 722-7514 Edina (Minneapolis) Office: (952) 214-4278 By understanding the factors that influence the duration of relief, you can make informed decisions about your treatment options and work towards a pain-free, active lifestyle.
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Introduction Living with joint pain can be challenging, limiting your mobility and hindering your daily activities. However, at the Joint Relief Institute, we offer a specialized treatment called Viscosupplementation that can provide much-needed relief for your knees and shoulders. This is all made possible by our incredible team of skilled physicians. Reviews from happy patients will highlight their dedication to helping you on your road to recovery, ensuring positive patient relationships, open communication, and thorough follow-ups for your overall health and well-being. Building Positive Patient Relations At the Joint Relief Institute, we prioritize establishing positive relationships with our patients. We understand that joint pain can be a distressing and frustrating experience. Our physicians approach each patient with empathy, compassion, and respect. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your unique needs, and answer any questions you may have. By fostering a comfortable and supportive environment, we aim to build trust and instill confidence in our patients. Open Communication for Informed Decisions We believe that open communication is key to providing effective care. Our physicians take the time to thoroughly explain the Viscosupplementation procedure, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the treatment process, benefits, and potential outcomes. We encourage you to ask questions and express any concerns you may have. By facilitating open dialogue, we empower you to make informed decisions about your joint health. Following Up Our commitment to your well-being extends beyond the Viscosupplementation treatment. Our physicians provide comprehensive follow-ups to ensure your recovery progresses smoothly. We offer personalized health suggestions and recommendations tailored to your specific needs. These may include exercises, lifestyle modifications, or additional therapies to optimize your joint health and enhance the long-term effectiveness of the treatment. Our team will be there to guide you every step of the way, providing ongoing support and monitoring your progress. When it comes to joint relief and your journey towards recovery, our dedicated physicians at the Joint Relief Institute. are here to assist you. We prioritize positive patient relations, ensuring open communication and thorough follow-ups for your overall well-being. Take the first step towards joint relief today and entrust your care to our experienced team of professionals.
Read More Living with osteoarthritis can be challenging, especially when it affects weight-bearing joints like the knees. Thankfully, medical advancements have introduced various treatment options to alleviate pain and improve joint function. One such treatment gaining popularity is knee gel injections, also known as viscosupplementation. We’ll delve into some frequently asked questions surrounding knee gel injections and provide answers to help you make an informed decision about your osteoarthritis treatment. What are Knee Gel Injections and Viscosupplementation? Viscosupplementation is commonly known as knee gel injections or shots. It involves the injection of a gel-like substance into the knee joint to provide lubrication and cushioning. The gel, typically made of hyaluronic acid, mimics the natural joint fluid found in healthy knees. The Joint Relief Institute carries over ten different types of gels for the Viscosupplementation procedure. This procedure aims to reduce pain, inflammation, and improve joint mobility for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. How does Viscosupplementation Work? When knee osteoarthritis occurs, the joint fluid’s viscosity and cushioning properties diminish, leading to friction, inflammation, and discomfort. Viscosupplementation works by replenishing the hyaluronic acid in the knee joint, restoring its lubricating and shock-absorbing capabilities. By improving the quality of joint fluid, knee gel injections help reduce pain and enhance joint function. Who Should Get Viscosupplementation? Knee gel injections are typically recommended for individuals with knee osteoarthritis symptoms that haven’t responded well to conservative treatments like over-the-counter pain medications, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections. It is important to consult with a licensed provider who can evaluate your condition and determine whether viscosupplementation is appropriate for you. At The Joint Relief Institute, our providers will be able to do this evaluation during your first consultation. What Can I Expect During Viscosupplementation Procedure? The knee gel injection procedure is a relatively simple outpatient process that can be performed in a doctor’s office. The process you can expect: Cleaning of the injection site Application of a local anesthetic if necessary Injection into the joint space At the Joint Relief Institute, we use a technique called Fluoroscopy that increases the accuracy of the injection location. The gel-like substance will be injected directly and accurately into the knee joint. The entire procedure usually takes about 15-20 minutes, and you can return to normal activities right after. Is Viscosupplementation Painful? The knee gel injection procedure is generally well-tolerated, and any discomfort is usually minimal. The Joint Relief Institute uses a numbing cold spray and lidocaine so that patients don’t experience anything more than a small pinch. How Long Does it Take to Experience the Benefits of Viscosupplementation? Viscosupplementation knee injections provide immediate pain relief in three ways: The injection quickly soothes distressed cartilage, offering instant relief. The shot delivers a powerful anti-inflammatory effect that continues to work over the next few days, alleviating knee inflammation. The gel forms a cushioning pillow inside the joint, reducing friction and providing long-term relief. What are the Potential Side Effects of Viscosupplementation? Viscosupplementation is generally very safe and serious complications are rare. However, like any medical procedure, there can be some potential side effects. These can include: Localized pain Swelling around injection site Redness or warmth around the injection site In rare cases, an allergic reaction or infection may occur. It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or pre-existing conditions with experts to ensure the treatment is safe for you. Want to Talk to a Viscosupplementation Expert? Knee gel injections, or Viscosupplementation, offer a promising treatment option for individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis. By replenishing the joint fluid with a gel-like substance, these injections can reduce pain, inflammation, and improve joint mobility. The Joint Relief Institute takes extensive measures to ensure that this procedure is completed with the utmost care and accuracy. Contact Us Today To learn more about knee gel injections, their costs, and insurance coverage, please contact us: Chicago Office: (708) 722-7514 Edina (Minneapolis) Office: (952) 214-4278 If you have been struggling with knee osteoarthritis and conservative treatments have not provided adequate relief, knee gel injections may be worth considering. Consult with a Patient Care Specialist to discuss your individual condition and determine the best treatment approach for you.
Read More Viscosupplementation Provides Knee Pain Relief without Surgery 33 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis – with knee osteoarthritis accounting for 80% of the disease burden. If recent trends continue, over half of these patients will undergo knee replacement surgery to ease their pain. Understandably, such surgery is not without risks and complications. However, there’s a less invasive treatment available to you. Viscosupplementation is an effective, much safer alternative that can alleviate your pain and enable you to do the things you love. “I didn’t know how much LIFE and SLEEP I was missing because of my knee pain, until it went away with this wonderful treatment.” George R. “Every day was hard. I couldn’t enjoy my favorite activities anymore. But thankfully, I’m back in full form. I am doing yard work for the first time in years!” Phil M. What Is Viscosupplementation and How Does It Work? Viscosupplementation refers to the introduction of hyaluronic acid (HA) into the joint space, through intra-articular injections. To understand how this works, we must understand the osteoarthritis disease process. The knee is a large, weight-bearing joint that holds up the majority of your body weight. Routine wear and tear damages joint cartilage, which triggers the release of harmful chemicals into the synovial fluid (the fluid between the bones). This release: As a result, the friction between the bones that make up the knee joint increases, leading to bony outgrowths and more pain. Hyaluronic acid, a viscous component of the knee’s lubricating synovial fluid, helps slow the degenerative osteoarthritis process by:
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If you’re seeking relief from osteoarthritis knee pain, viscosupplementation may be a viable treatment option. In this article, we will delve into the details of viscosupplementation, explaining its mechanism of action, administration process, effectiveness, and potential side effects. Whether you’re considering Synvisc, Hyalgan, or other viscosupplementation options, this comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable insights. Read on to discover the benefits of viscosupplementation in managing osteoarthritis. What is Viscosupplementation Viscosupplementation refers to the use of injections containing hyaluronic acid to treat osteoarthritis. This treatment approach aims to supplement the natural hyaluronic acid found in joints, providing cushioning, lubrication, and reducing pain. How Viscosupplementation Injections Work Viscosupplementation injections consist of a gel-like substance that contains hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the body, particularly in joints, where it acts as a lubricant and shock absorber. By injecting hyaluronic acid into the affected joint, viscosupplementation seeks to improve joint function, reduce pain, and alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis. At The Joint Relief Institute, we use an imaging technique called fluoroscopy to ensure accurate placement of the gel every time. Without fluoroscopy, even experienced doctors may miss the injection site. We also drain any fluid prior to injecting the hyaluronic acid to maximize effectiveness. Administration and Pain Management Viscosupplementation injections should be administered by a healthcare professional specializing in the treatment of osteoarthritis, such as an orthopedic surgeon or rheumatologist. The procedure typically involves identifying an appropriate injection site, cleansing it, and ensuring pain management through the use of numbing creams or sprays. Once the injection site is prepared, the excess fluid in the joint may be removed before injecting the viscosupplementation product. The specific technique and number of injections required may vary depending on the product being used and the healthcare provider’s preferences. It’s crucial to consult with your doctor to understand the details of the administration process. Effectiveness of Viscosupplementation Injections The effectiveness of viscosupplementation injections can vary from person to person. While some individuals may experience immediate relief following the injections, others may require a longer period to notice improvements. Generally, viscosupplementation injections can provide relief from osteoarthritis knee pain for several months. Regular assessments with your healthcare provider will help determine if repeat treatments are necessary. Potential Side Effects Viscosupplementation injections are generally well-tolerated, with few severe side effects. However, it’s possible to experience temporary pain, swelling, stiffness, redness, or fluid buildup at the injection site. In rare cases, individuals may have an allergic reaction to the injection, characterized by symptoms such as swelling, difficulty breathing, rash, itching, or hives. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies or existing medical conditions. The Joint Relief Institute provides over ten different gels to use for the injection process, meaning that allergies to specific gels won’t be an obstacle to completing the procedure. Conclusion Viscosupplementation is a valuable treatment option for individuals seeking relief from osteoarthritis knee pain. By understanding the principles of viscosupplementation, its administration process, effectiveness, and potential side effects, you can make an informed decision about your treatment. Consult with a healthcare professional to assess your specific needs and determine the most suitable viscosupplementation option for you. With the potential to improve joint function and alleviate pain, viscosupplementation can play a significant role in enhancing your quality of life. Finally, The Joint Relief Institute providers will listen to you and take your entire experiences into account while administering treatment. Viscosupplementation, while highly effective, is only one step of the process – our physicians will make recommendations based on diet, exercise, and they may show you how to complete helpful stretches!
Read MoreAbout Dr. Hana
Mike Hana is triple board certified in Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Interventional Pain Practice. He completed his fellowship at the University of Texas, where he also served as an assistant professor training and teaching other physicians the science and the art of performing Image-guided interventions for pain management.